The home is located less than 1/2 block from the Gulf of Mexico white sandy beach. The beach is a 2-minute stroll from the house (see photos). Beach carts, chairs, beach towels, umbrellas, and coolers are provided. The beach is 170 steps from our door and is never crowded, not even during the peak winter season. It almost feels like it's our own private beach! There is plenty to do here. The restaurants are great. Want to explore the Island? Everything on the Island is accessible via the free air-conditioned trolley running every twenty minutes, or b free jitney services. Historic Bridge Street, with its restaurants, bars and grilles, live music, shops, and historic pier, is a 20-minute walk from the home. Don't want to drive on a night out on the town? Free jitney services will take you to-and-fro day or night. They work for tips. For those who want to fish, Anna Maria Island is known as one of the best fishing locations in Florida. There are fishing piers and party fishing boats down the street. Serious about catching fish? Consider chartering a private fishing boat from one of the Island’s licensed captains (it is often said they know where the fish are!). Like to shop? World-famous St. Armand's Circle and Sarasota are minutes away. Prime Outlets (130 designer and brand-name outlet stores) is nearby, but not too close to threaten your vacation budget! Have kids, or just want to act like one? Busch Gardens in Tampa is about an hour away, and Disney World is a 2 hour ride door-to-door.